Marco’s Pizza has signed a substantial 15-unit development agreement to bolster its presence across the Midwest region of the US.

The agreement features the resale of nine existing locations in northwest Ohio and the establishment of 15 new outlets across the same area and in northeast Indiana.

The franchise group leading this expansion is Grube, a multi-unit, multi-brand group of business partners.

Founded by its president Steve Grube, who entered the foodservice sector in the early 2000s with a Buffalo Wild Wings outlet, the group has since experienced significant growth through acquisitions and new developments.

Grube’s current portfolio contains 67 Buffalo Wild Wings across eight states and a Rusty Taco outlet in Maumee, Ohio.

The nine resale locations involved in the agreement were acquired from an existing owner, providing Grube with a swift market entry to areas where Marco’s Pizza already has a footprint.

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Grube said: “I have the utmost confidence in this new journey with Marco’s Pizza, as our team is committed to upholding the traditions of quality products, fresh ingredients and a tight-knit community that makes Marco’s so special.

“This deal marks a significant milestone for the Grube team as we enter the pizza market and expand our portfolio to reach more than 75 units, while deepening our footprint in the Midwest.”

This agreement aligns with Marco’s Pizza’s 2024 development strategy, which focuses on multi-unit growth, enhancing franchisee relations and providing robust operational support. Almost half of the franchise network at Marco’s Pizza consists of multi-unit operators.

Marco’s Pizza chief development officer Gerardo Flores said: “In alignment with our development strategy for multi-unit growth, this signed agreement puts Marco’s on the fast track to reaching our growth goals.

“The Grube team is a remarkable addition to Marco’s as they have a proven track record of elevating other brands in their portfolio. We look forward to watching them foster sustained growth in new and existing markets.”

Marco’s Pizza operates 1,200 stores in 34 states and has locations in Puerto Rico and the Bahamas.

The brand is also exploring opportunities in the nontraditional franchise sector and eyeing international markets for growth.

In March 2024, the company revealed its plans to enter the Mexican market, following a new franchise agreement.